Hoosick Falls celebrates new water source after years of contamination

HOOSICK FALLS, N.Y. (WRGB) — A resolution to secure a new water source and infrastructure for Hoosick Falls was passed on Monday night, marking a significant step in the village’s recovery from water contamination issues that began in 2014. The contamination was linked to microplastics, prompting the town to switch its water source from a well near Saint Gobain to the Lacroix well field.

Amanda Lefton, Acting Commissioner of the Department of Environmental Conservation, said, “And tonight we celebrate the completion of this critical project, which is just the latest step in the state’s ongoing commitment to address POA and our commitment to the village, moving forward as well as the town of private drinking water wells.”

The new water source includes a 1.25-mile transmission line connecting the groundwater source to the village’s water treatment plant. Hoosick Falls Mayor Rob Allen expressed optimism, stating, “We were a community experiencing disaster, and tonight we celebrate another milestone in our village’s recovery. From the beginning, the village’s position has been to maintain our filtration system and search for a new water source.”

Residents recall the impact of the contamination. Jennifer Schuttig, a Hoosick resident, said, “I cried. We were down in Disney World, and we got the phone call from our neighbor, and our kids were little, and I raised them on formula, and we used tap water.” Despite the switch to a cleaner water source, Schuttig remains cautious. “I still filter. I’m an engineer. I know it’s safe, but it’s a trust issue, and I still use my Britta filter no matter what,” she said.

Governor Kathy Hochul congratulated Hoosick Falls on their achievement, stating, “The Hoosick Falls community is a national example of strength, resiliency, and collaboration in meeting an extraordinary challenge, and the milestone reached today will ensure clean drinking water for generations of residents.”